Fountains recently installed at Yeovil town centre’s amphitheatre within The Triangle regeneration project have been temporarily shut down during very hot weather, Somerset Council has confirmed.
The water features, unveiled in late January 2025 as part of the government-funded Future High Streets Fund initiative, were inactive throughout the recent heatwave, sparking questions from local officials and residents.
Yeovil town councillor Tareth Casey, representing the Westland ward, publicly sought clarification after the fountains did not operate as expected during the heat spell. The council’s response revealed that the fountains are designed to cease operation when temperatures exceed 25°C to ensure water quality and safety.
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According to Somerset Council, the fountains’ water treatment system—relying on chemical dosing similar to a swimming pool—comes under strain in high temperatures. Factors such as increased visitor use, sunscreen residue, and faster evaporation affect bromine and pH balance, necessitating temporary shutdowns until safe water standards can be guaranteed.
“The system functions well up to 25°C with daily maintenance visits,” the council stated. “However, hotter conditions require more frequent monitoring and treatment to maintain acceptable chemical levels, which currently isn’t feasible with existing staffing.”
Councillor Casey expressed concerns about the design and operational planning of the fountains, questioning whether adequate resources and long-term management considerations were accounted for prior to installation. He highlighted the irony that a water feature intended to provide cooling and enjoyment during warm weather becomes nonfunctional precisely when it is most needed.
Additionally, Councillor Casey criticized the decision not to use the large screen at The Triangle for broadcasting upcoming World Cup matches, citing it as another missed opportunity to activate the town centre vibrancy the regeneration aimed to stimulate.
He emphasized the need for a comprehensive plan, ongoing investment, and dedicated management to fully realize the potential benefits of these new facilities.
Meanwhile, Somerset Council continues to develop additional green space nearby on the old Glovers Walk shopping centre site, further enhancing Yeovil’s evolving town centre landscape.